Waitangi Day Dining: 6 Restaurants Across Aotearoa

Why it's perfect for the Waitangi long weekend: There's truly no more meaningful place to dine on Waitangi Day than at the very heart of where Te Tiriti was signed. Nestled within the Treaty Grounds, Whare Waka Café offers an experience that beautifully combines cultural significance with exceptional food.

The atmosphere: Surrounded by native ferns and trees, you'll enjoy views overlooking the waka taua (ceremonial war canoe) across to Paihia and out to the Pacific Ocean. It's a peaceful, contemplative setting that truly honours the significance of the day.

What to try: Whare Waka Café serves delicious New Zealand cuisine with tempting cabinet selections and an excellent à la carte menu. Grab a quality Riley's coffee or, if you're in holiday mode, enjoy a cold beer or wine on a sunny Northland afternoon. Fully licensed with indoor and outdoor seating, it's the perfect spot to relax and soak in the Treaty Grounds atmosphere.

Good for: Families, groups, functions, and anyone wanting an authentic connection to Waitangi Day's origins.

Why it's perfect for the Waitangi long weekend: Just a few minutes' drive from Kerikeri village and within easy reach of the Treaty Grounds, Marsden Estate offers the quintessential Bay of Islands dining experience. Named after Samuel Marsden – the driving force behind establishing Anglican mission stations in New Zealand – this winery celebrates Northland's rich history.

The atmosphere: Dine on the terrace shaded by grapevines, overlooking a tranquil lake, lush gardens, and rolling vineyard. It's the perfect setting for a long, leisurely lunch on a summer public holiday.

What to try: Over its two-decade history, Marsden Estate has become renowned for innovative cuisine showcasing fresh regional produce – local pork, beef, fish, and seasonal vegetables. Pair your meal with their award-winning wines, all grown and made in Northland (with the exception of their Sauvignon Blanc from Marlborough). Wine flights are also available for those wanting to sample the range.

Good for: Long lunches, wine lovers, families (children's menu available), and those exploring the Bay of Islands region.

Why it's perfect for the Waitangi long weekend: Wellington hosts vibrant Waitangi Day celebrations including Te Rā o Waitangi, and WBC has confirmed they're open on Waitangi Day. This beloved Wellington institution offers award-winning dining in a historic art deco boot factory – a perfect pairing of heritage and exceptional food.

The atmosphere: Sun-drenched dining room featuring a stunning plywood bar, enormous antique windows, and views over Wellington's boutique retail district. The classic bistro and oyster bar vibe, complete with an open kitchen, creates energy and theatre while you dine.

What to try: WBC's seafood bar features Wellington's largest range of local oysters and shellfish – perfect for celebrating Aotearoa's coastal bounty. The menu focuses on seasonal, local ingredients with dishes ranging from small snacking plates to "boots n all" sharing platters. The blackboard specials change daily, ensuring fresh, innovative options every visit.

Good for: Groups, families, special occasions, and anyone seeking fragrant, flavoursome Wellington dining with a sophisticated edge.

Why it's perfect for the Waitangi long weekend: Housed in one of Wellington's last remaining heritage wharf buildings dating back to 1887, Dockside offers history and stunning harbour views in equal measure. With one of the largest outdoor dining areas over water in the Southern Hemisphere, it's an iconic Wellington experience.

The atmosphere: The maritime-themed restaurant features a retractable roof on the deck, offering al fresco dining rain or shine. The historic timber building – once a warehouse fundamental to operating Wellington's wharves – has been lovingly transformed while maintaining its heritage charm.

What to try: Dockside offers a largely seafood-based menu showcasing the best of what New Zealand has to offer. The menu changes daily, emphasising the freshest produce available. Their sharing platters are legendary, and the steak has earned rave reviews from visitors worldwide.

Good for: Public holiday dining, waterfront celebrations, functions, and special occasions with spectacular views.

Why it's perfect for the Waitangi long weekend: If you're celebrating in the Southern Lakes region, Kika has become the culinary darling of Wānaka locals – and for good reason. This award-winning restaurant is known for its innovative approach to dining and celebrates public holidays with their doors wide open.

The atmosphere: Located in the lively town centre of Wānaka, Kika offers a relaxed and friendly environment where global flavours meet New Zealand produce. The intimate setting creates a welcoming vibe perfect for catching up with loved ones over shared plates.

What to try: Owned and operated by award-winning chef James Stapley, Kika delivers innovative sharing-style plates that draw inspiration from global cuisines. The menu changes with the seasons, always showcasing new and interesting produce. A carefully curated wine list featuring local Central Otago and international varietals complements the eclectic dishes perfectly.

Good for: Groups, families, public holiday dining, foodies seeking creative cuisine, and those wanting an authentic Wānaka dining experience.

Why it's perfect for the Waitangi long weekend: Celebrate our national day at Auckland's vibrant Wynyard Quarter waterfront. The Conservatory is proudly New Zealand-owned and operated – just one of the venues nationwide that can call themselves "free trade", meaning they focus on supporting smaller Kiwi businesses.

The atmosphere: Home to the world's first "living bar" – a stunning wall of living plants behind the bar – The Conservatory offers a heated, covered wrap-around outdoor terrace with waterfront views whatever the weather. The ethos here is that great drinking and dining doesn't need to be pretentious – just excellent service in a relaxed environment where everyone feels welcome.

What to try: The menu spans gastro pub favourites, gourmet burgers and pizzas, fresh seafood, and Modern NZ cuisine. Reviews rave about the fresh fish, duck, and their moreish dips with bread. The free trade drinks list means you're getting the best products in the market.

Good for: Groups, families, public holiday dining, outdoor seating, dog friendly, and anyone wanting relaxed waterfront dining with a great atmosphere.